Open Thread
The water's fine.
Comments (237) «
Good morning Dems, Maybe today around 2pm Fitz will give us a ...well you know. Rove the target.
Morning Good Dems,
IMPEACH THEM ALLLLL!
Let's start with cheney tho, that way the brain is gone and then death follows quickly.
Just imagine, 1000s of supeanas issued, demanding the oversight abdicated by the repug congress....
JUST IMAGINE!!!!
T.G.I.F. $100 of our tax money proposed to be handed out by the Repuglithugs to apologize for the oil company humongous profits. UNBELIVABLE!!! The Repug congress will abet the robbery of the American people by EXXON/Mobile, etc.
Fair Democrats,
Today is FRIDAY.
And you know what that means...
Aaah,
Shake, shake, shake,
(doo doo dododo doooo)
Shake, shake, shake,
Shake your booty :)
Shake your booty :)
republicans...
are idiots...
I CAN TELL.
Democrats...
Know how to shake...
VERY WELL.
Aaah,
Shake, shake, shake,
(doo doo dododo doooo)
Shake, shake, shake,
Shake your booty :)
Shake your booty :)
Thank you and have a pleasant day.
If the really stupid $100 handout occures we should all send it directly to the Democrat cause of our choice. Turn their spear against them.
Has everyone written their senator asking why they didn't allow Wyden to submit amendment to overturn oil company welfare yesterday?
BTW, the only time McCain spoke with any passion is when he told the repugs that inserting pork in the emergency $106.5 bill for iraq was telling citizens that it's business as usual....they did vote that one out!
Good morning, all.
Teaching Americans How to Behave Abroad
By Scott McCartney
Wall Street Journal Online
Trying to combat anti-U.S. sentiment abroad, a campaign is under way to give the "ugly American" a makeover and improve the manners of business travelers overseas.
//biz.yahoo.com/special/biztravel2_06_
article5.html
When is Condi and Rummie getting their training?
Bush could use some help learning how to behave at home as well...32% approval rating and tanking.
He scored real big with the Chinese Prime Minister last week...did every thing but shoot him, but then he leaves that to his sure-shoot sidekick.
Posted by followthemoney on April 28, 2006 at 10:14 AM
Now your're talking. Great idea.
Look Alterman has adopted the term "Yellow Snow" as well.
I love this line....
Based on past experience with this White House, we all should feel reasonably safe that Mr Snow can say goodbye to his privates. Snow's job will be better snowjobs, period.
With the $100 "rebate" First buy David Sirota's book Hostile Takeover comming out May 2, Then contribute to Move On, ICH, Consortium News...and whoever else is championing the cause to run um off.
Morning and sorry for the length of this one, but it sure perked up my morning. You HAVE to click into the link, and see the picture. It is not just us who have a sense of humor.......
It's beginning to look a lot like Fitzmas, as they say in Democratic circles. It's likely the former top policy advisor for President Bush will soon come under federal indictment for his role in the CIA leak case. In the Fall '05 indictment of VP Dick Cheney's former chief I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby, Rove is repeatedly referred to as "Official A." According to legal experts, individuals given that status typically get indicted. More significant, of all the cases prosecuted by independent counsel Patrick Fitzgerald, who's leading the investigation, every single "Official A" was indicted. Not a good sign for Turd Blossom.
On Wednesday, Rove was called before the grand jury for a fifth time, and faced 3 1/2 hours of grueling questioning by Fitzpatrick. Given the amount of times he's been called to testify, and the amount of time he spent under oath this week, it's becoming increasingly certain that an indictment is imminent.
"Anytime your client has been identified as a subject, and has gone to the grand jury five times, and the last time is 3 1/2 hours, you have a lot to worry about," said Fmr. Deputy Independent Counsel Sol Wisenberg on MSNBC's Hardball Thursday.
Rove, who's likely to face charges of perjury and obstruction similar to Libby, was very upbeat and optimistic at a D.C. party Wednesday night following his testimony. But like many things in the Bushevik Monarchy these days, it's all window dressing. Rove has to be seriously concerned about his fate despite putting on a good public face. He reportedly told pals the day was extremely intense and difficult; like he had "gone to the doctor."
Sitting in for host Chris Matthews, Norah O'Donnell said "With gas drying up, with leaks spilling out, and with polls falling down, Republicans face some tough times in Washington." At least for now, let's just hope, for Karl Rove, the party is officially over.
I adore this feisty lady and hope that I am equally has active and outspoken when I am 85. My hat is off to Ms. Helen Thomas and I'm glad the Guardian chose to honor her with a great biography today.
A blend of journalism and acupuncture' - the 85-year-old who terrifies presidents
Gerald Ford remarked that she practised "a fine blend of journalism and acupuncture" and Colin Powell, semijoking after being cornered at a cocktail party, wondered aloud: "Isn't there a war we could send her to?"
currently on Cpsan2, they are giving a report on terrorism....in their opinion, "those that aren't locked up are on the run"....isn't that what rummy said 6 mos and 100 of deaths ago?
1,000 secret CIA flights revealed
The figure is significantly higher than previously thought. EU parliamentarians who conducted the investigation concluded that incidents when terror suspects were handed over to US agents did not appear to be isolated. They said the suspects were often transported around Europe on the same planes by agents whose names repeatedly came up in their investigation.
Those "ugly Americans" are at it again. I hate to harp on this, but these people know nothing about the rules of hospitality...you have to be invited first. But then we weren't invited when we invaded either.
Visit by Rumsfeld, Rice Sets Off Criticism in Iraq
Some leaders worry that the Americans' surprise trip could hurt talks on forming a government. Analysts see an effort to shore up U.S. opinion.
By Louise Roug and Paul Richter, Times Staff Writers
BAGHDAD — Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld paid a surprise visit to Baghdad on Wednesday to express support for Iraq's new leaders, but drew criticism from Iraqi politicians who said they feared the unannounced visit might do more harm than good.
"We didn't invite them," said Kamal Saadi, a Shiite legislator close to the new prime minister-designate, Nouri Maliki.
Saadi said Iraqi leaders had not been given advance notice of the visit, which came just days after Iraqi politicians broke through a months-long impasse on the selection of a prime minister.
"Maybe Rumsfeld's visit can be justified" because of American troop presence, "but I can't see a clear reason behind Rice's visit," Saadi said. "The crisis is over and negotiations are taking place."....
Well, I guess he put That Woman in her place...and why wasn't she wearing a burka?
I think that pix of Raymond has set off a world-wide reaction to "ugly" Republicans. Post it again. Hell, somebody send out a press release and ask foreign editors to add their own cutlines.
Better yet, do a mailing to all high school newspaper editors and make it a contest. The winner gets to have lunch with Tim at a 7-11 and a full tank of gas.
If your Representative's name is not included here, copy and paste and Send this him via email or fax, and ask him why the hell not! Time for impotent Democrats to get off their arses!
"Law-breaking Republicans are being taken to court.
Eleven House Democrats said Thursday they would sue the Bush administration, alleging the $39 billion deficit-reducing legislation signed by the president is unconstitutional because the House and Senate failed to approve identical versions.
The lawsuit, led by Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee, was to be filed Friday in U.S. District Court in Detroit. Similar lawsuits have been filed in other states by an Alabama attorney and a Florida-based student loan consulting firm.
"Once again the administration is playing fast and loose with the Constitution," Conyers said. "Anyone who has passed the sixth grade knows that before a bill can become law, both Houses of Congress must approve it."
A version of the bill that was narrowly approved by the House on Feb. 1 contained a clerical error. That error was fixed when the bill was transmitted to Bush, who signed it Feb. 8.
The White House and House and Senate GOP leaders have said the matter is settled because the mistake was technical and top House and Senate leaders certified the bill before transmitting it to the White House.
Ron Bonjean, a spokesman for House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill., called it "another attempt by the Democrats to stop us from trying to stop spending. They'll go to all ends of the earth to make sure that Americans have less money in their wallets." [...]
In addition to Conyers, the plaintiffs include Reps. John Dingell of Michigan, George Miller of California, Charles Rangel of New York, Collin Peterson of Minnesota, Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, James Oberstar of Minnesota, Barney Frank of Massachusetts, Pete Stark of California, Sherrod Brown of Ohio and Louise Slaughter of New York.
That's quite an impressive list of names.
Despite the bluster from Hastert's spokesman, Republicans are desperately trying to avoid another vote on this bill, which passed by two votes after considerable arm twisting. Especially this close to the election, Republicans would be hammered for revoting on the bill which provided drastic cuts to education and healthcare.
So instead of being politically brave, sure of their convictions and confident the American people will back their efforts, Republicans have resorted to defying the United States Constitution.
Which for this crowd in power, is about par for the course.
Dones anyone know how they propose to give this $100.00 rebate?
Is it by tax return, by how big you SUV is? by what, will everyone get one?
I guess in this day and age they expect people to be glad that they arent offering $10.00 rebate,
How do they justify a $100.00 rebate?
I don't get it.
Wonderful starting my day off with typos,
that was suppose to be:does anyone know how they propose to give this $100.00 rebate?
Pam, I read on Conyers site that he only asked certain Dems to sign on to the suit because of some arcane rules. So we can't assume the other reps didn't support it.
Merry Fitzmas, Everyone!
Melissa, they are very quiet about how that C-Note will be handled. It's suppused to go to every car owner for gas subsidy (about 2 fill ups).
So, tax money from the Treasury will be taken from non auto owners and transferred to the OIL COMPANIES!!
More institutionalized graft in order to inflate the already outragous stock prices of those robber Barons. I don't think the money can be spent on anything other than gas.
I have an idea. Why not repeal that billion dollar gift to the oil industry and rebate us with that? I'm willing to donate my rebate to the deficit. They could use the $100 more than me.
(snip)
NHTSA said the number of licensed vehicles in the U.S. rose 2 percent to 243 million and the number of vehicle miles traveled rose by 1 billion to nearly 3 trillion miles.
243 Million X $100.00 is a lot of change for the OIL COMPANIES. Just how much will that 24.3 BILLION cost to administer, and does Halliburton have a subsidiary that will get a NO-BID contract to handle disbursement?
My inquiring mind is telling me that the $100 handout is not practical...even for the Repuglithugs. They do not intend to go through with it. They expect the Democrats to "shout" it down and they will reluctantly go along with not doing it. But the Democrats are the villans for not allowing them to "help" with the high costs of gas. ???
The $100 rebate is strictly Hush Money, like the child credit was, to keep the low income masses from realizing that they are protecting and defending the Oil Companies HUGE profits.
Unfortunetly, there are people who fall for these tricks. I know a guy who argued vehemently last time, that he would vote for Bush because he was getting Child credit on his taxes !
He did not bother to look at all the other areas he would get screwed on!
Posted by dk2 on April 28, 2006 at 11:01 AM
individual tax filers that make under 14,000 and change and married tax filers making under 248,000 per year. Everyone gets them, not just car drivers. Which makes sense, because everyone is affected by the price of gas, not just those who drive cars. Home food delivery charges went up, as did other prices directly related to the cost of delivering the items to stores, etc. It was in the New York Times this morning, but I've lost the link as I already read and deleted my daily newletter.
That's the repuglican plan at the moment anyway.
I sent an email to Senators Voinovich and DeWine yesterda that they can keep that $100. followthemoney, I like your suggestion.
Go Dems!
Good Morning everyone. Since we appear to be getting in the Fitzmas spirit again, a repost:
Merry Fitzmas:
It's beginning to look a lot like Fitzmas
Ev'rywhere you go;
More denial in the air, thicker than Cheney’s hair
And lots and lots of indictments to bestow.
It's beginning to look a lot like Fitzmas,
Charges for White House staff,
But the merriest charge will be, the one for perjury, that will make you laugh.
A Scooter that leaks whenever he speaks
Is the target of Fitz’s plan;
A Rove that will talk and go for a walk
Now its really hit the fan;
And Moms and Dads can hardly believe they voted for that man.
It's beginning to look a lot like Fitzmas
Ev'rywhere you go;
A place for Cheney in hell, one for George as well,
And Condi will follow down before you know.
It's beginning to look a lot like Fitzmas;
Soon the trials will start,
And the thing that will make Rove sing is the sentence they will bring
that will stop Cheney’s heart.
I still think an old fashion picket the exxon, or station of your choice is in order for July 1, 2008,
A wake up American gas station picket.
...and why wasn't she wearing a burka?
Posted by SandyH on April 28, 2006 at 10:46 AM
Condi is not a moslem Sandy.
I have a stupid question. Where is the money coming from for the $100 rebate? Are the oil companies funding this rebate? Because if the oil companies are not funding the rebate, how is this going to solve the problem?
Well lookeee here, ol' George is at the gas pump with his shirtsleeves rolled up like he's a been workin' and he's shootin' the breeze with the regular guy. He's just like you an' me afteralls!
picket july 1 2006, (typo- sorry you all, cant hit the right keys,)
Posted by alwaysblue on April 28, 2006 at 11:40 AM
Its coming from your other pocket. You didn't feel George's hand?
It doesn't matter whether Constant Liar Rice is Muslim or not. Even US Military Women have to wear burkhas when out in the open, even in Saudi Arabia. US Policy, y'know.
(I just got this from my Aunt in Hotlanta, LOL)
A business man got on an elevator. When he
entered, there was a blonde already inside who
greeted him with a bright, "T-G-I-F."
He smiled at her and replied, "S-H-I-T."
She looked puzzled and repeated,
"T-G-I-F," more slowly.
He again answered, "S-H-I-T."
The blonde was trying to keep it friendly,
so she smiled her biggest smile, and said as sweetly as possibly,
"T-G-I-F."
The man smiled back to her and once again,
"S-H-I-T."
The exasperated blonde finally decided to
explain.
'T-G-I-F' means 'Thank Goodness It's
Friday.' Get it, duuhhh?"
The man answered, "'S-H-I-T' means 'Sorry,
Honey, It's Thursday'
TGIF ya'll ;-)
Don't you remember Bush is the P R man while Cheney and Rumfeld run the country, sure he's at the pump, just like he put his are around a fireman at the world trade center after 911.
I promise not to tell anyone that I'm gonna give my $100 gas pain hush money to Ned Lamont so he can put Joey Lieberman out of his misery.
Hey BlueinRedCincy, where in Cincy are you? I'm an eastsider. Are you canvassing tomorrow?
Posted by BlueinIdaho on April 28, 2006 at 11:42 AM
That's kinda what I thought. I guess that's really sticking it to the oil companies!
That was: arm around,
I quit , I wont blog any more, I cant type today.
bye
Congressman Kennedy,
I am appalled that you and others in the House of Representatives think that a $100 bribe is going to change how Americans view the selling out of our country to the oil companies. At this point $100 doesn’t help much especially when the price of gas is $3.00/gallon. What a joke! Then you add further insult to injury by tacking on allowing drilling in the ANWAR habitat in Alaska. We don’t need more drilling for oil that is not the solution needed. The problem is that this Administration and the Republican Congress are indebted to the oil companies for campaign funding and other unethical bribes. If you were ethical and really cared about the citizens of this country the Congress would step up put forth a bill that gives incentives to businesses for research and development of alternative fuels and renewable energy resources and systems. A bill that would give incentives to consumers to purchase said alternative energy systems, fuel, cars, etc. That would create real jobs and relieve the dependency on foreign oil, all oil. That would make America stronger and more competitive in the global market. But you and your ‘friends’ in the oil industry won’t do that since the oil companies couldn’t raise prices and you couldn’t tax us on the usage of the sun or wind could you? When cars get 70 to 100 mpg the oil company’s profits go down because demand is less. No, just keep giving them tax breaks and make the almost non existent middle class pick up the tab.
I can’t wait until November to see you and many of your Republican colleagues get booted out of office. I for one am working very hard to see that happen. You have done enough damage to your constituents and this country.
Regards,
Cathy
Circle Pines, MN
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OK, I AM SUFFICIENTLY PISSED!
That fireman was retired at the time, and was recruited for the photo op. Also, the staged picture of the firemen hoisting the American Flag ala Okinawa used a stolen flag, taken from a nearby boat. The boat owners are suing to have it returned.
BTW, Bush has now managed to kill more Americans in HIS war than died on 9-11.
MSNBC Poll (how sad is this? I heard that song and thought it was a beautiful tribute. Who are all these haters???)
What do you think about a Spanish-language version of the 'Star-Spangled Banner'? * 67433 responses
Great. This version reflects the multicultural country the United States has become.
13%
Awful. This version represents a rejection of assimilation into U.S. society.
82%
I'm not sure.
5.4%
And then there is the CSPAN Poll
What was this week's most important story in Washington?
Congress counters gas prices; proposes taxing oil profits & rebates
16%
Iran defies U.N. deadline on nuclear program
16%
Karl Rove testifies for fifth time in CIA leak case
34%
Pres. Bush unveils plan to curb gas prices
2%
Secs. Rice, Rumsfeld visit Iraq
1%
Senate panel recommends abolishing FEMA
6%
Senate diverts some war funds to boost border security
13%
Tony Snow named new White House press secretary
9%
Total Votes: 477
Jen Heyyya! :-)
No need to bet. I agree.
I also agree with Cspan's 34% thinking Karl is goin DOwnnnnnnnnnn! hehehehe!
I hate watching news during the day. It is totally PUG-LOVIN across the board.
BTW, Bush has now managed to kill more Americans in HIS war than died on 9-11.
Posted by DPD on April 28, 2006 at 11:49 AM
Uh, that would be the enemy that is killing those Americans.
Posted by Dawnie on April 28, 2006 at 11:52 AM
Sorry Dawn, I think that a spanish version of our national anthem is wrong. If I moved to another country where they spoke a different language, I would learn to sing their anthem the way it was written, not change it to suit my needs.
That doesn't make me a hater, I don't hate the people who made the song. I just think they made an error in judgement.
to each their own blue
There should be a hundred "versions" of that song. It's not the freaking bible for pete's sake.
what are you afraid of? How many languages do you speak? just curious.
ok I won't go on about it cuz I totally disagree
Ethics Bill Clears the House in Tight Vote
Last-Minute Deal Saves Measure
By Jonathan Weisman and Jeffrey H. Birnbaum
Washington Post Staff Writers
Friday, April 28, 2006; Page A04
The House narrowly cleared the way yesterday to vote on an overhaul of congressional lobbying rules after hours of contentious, closed-door meetings yielded a Republican agreement to broaden measures to rein in home-district pet projects and other narrow special-interest amendments.
The 216 to 207 vote followed a tumultuous day in which the measure had to be set aside for five hours while Republicans met in emergency session to revive the faltering legislation. Up to the moment a vote was held last evening, House Republican leaders feared an embarrassing defeat.
CONGRESSIONAL VOTES DATABASE
How Did Your Representative Vote on This Bill?
In Thursday's Post
No Outcry About Lobby Scandal, Lawmakers Say
Republican lawmakers who returned from a two-week recess this week said they felt free to pass a relatively tepid ethics bill because their constituents rarely mention the issue.
But a last-minute deal between House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) and rebellious Republicans on the House Appropriations Committee salvaged the legislation, which is now scheduled for a vote Tuesday.
Hastert promised appropriators that they would not alone be targeted by a provision that requires narrowly tailored "earmarks" be identified by the names of their sponsors and be subject to a special type of vote that could remove them. The leadership pledged to broaden the earmark provision in later negotiations with the Senate so that it will apply to all sorts of legislation, from transportation to taxation.
Appropriators were incensed that the pending ethics bill would apply the strict new rules only to their 11 annual spending bills, which fund the federal government. Had the provision been in place last year, they complained, it would not have blocked the so-called Bridge to Nowhere in Alaska, which helped spawn Congress's anti-earmarks drive in the first place. That much-criticized project was part of an authorization bill drafted by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, not an appropriations bill.
Even with the eleventh-hour backing of the GOP appropriators, the measure that passed yesterday, called a rule, almost failed. The vote had to be held open longer than usual before it garnered a majority. A solid phalanx of Democrats and 12 Republicans, including House Judiciary Committee Chairman F. James Sensenbrenner Jr. (Wis.) and fellow party members pushing for stronger measures, cast votes against the legislation.
The bill would require lobbyists to file quarterly instead of semiannual disclosures, and to include in those reports the donations they give to federal candidates and political action committees. Lobbyists would also have to make public the value of any gift that they give to lawmakers or congressional aides. In addition, appropriations bills would have to list any earmarks that they contain, as well as the sponsors of those projects. Ethics training would become mandatory for House employees under the legislation.
The measure was slated to come to a vote at noon but was abruptly yanked from the House floor after a brief debate. Aides confirmed that it was clear then that the rule did not have enough support to pass, largely because of the appropriators' defection. Earlier in the morning, House Majority Leader John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) had met privately with GOP appropriators and learned about their firm objection to being singled out in the ethics bill.
By 12:15, Republican leaders convened an emergency, members-only conference in one of the Capitol's largest and most ornate rooms, the House Ways and Means Committee chamber in the Longworth House Office Building.
In contrast to the regal surroundings, participants said the meeting was loud and pointed. Several appropriators frankly expressed their opposition; other lawmakers said the defeat of the measure would be a black eye for Republicans who are trying with the bill to distance themselves from former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, whose guilty plea in January prompted the reform effort.
Still others, such as Rep. Christopher Shays (Conn.) said the bill was less than a window dressing and should be rejected. Later, to reporters, he called the bill "pathetic." On the House floor, he added: "We're losing our moral authority to lead this place."
But it was not until a later, 45-minute meeting in the Capitol among the appropriators -- including former House majority leader Tom DeLay (R-Tex.) -- Hastert and Boehner that the accord was struck to save the ethics bill.
sorry i copied the whole article cause i still can't figure out how to just link it....
Jen, I'm east side girl too! I'm in Norwood. I had planned to go out of town this weekend, but that fell through. So I hadn't looked into the canvassing. Are you? If so, where at?
It used to be that the conservatives would win on-line polls hands down. Now though, the welfare moms have computers as do all of are wonderful government employess who have nothing better to do than blog on our tax dollars.
Well, Well. The party of 'family values' involved in another Sex Scandal! While their wives are in bible study, these guys have been studying something else!!!
New Watergate Scandal Involving Hookers and Republicans
Posted by Dawnie on April 28, 2006 at 12:02 PM
Actually the Bible comes in many different languages, but I don't agree with the analogy.
Do you think that people that object to the look of the American flag because it doesn't use traditional Mexican colors should be allowed to change the colors? Maybe a green background for the stars?
You're right, we don't agree, but I don't dislike you for your opinion.
currently on Cspan2 Gov Mitt Rmney R-Mass is talking about his insurance for everyone plan. I had heard about it earlier and thought maybe it was a good idea, but the way he presents it is that "there will be no more free rides, everyone will HAVE to have insurance and all but the VERY poor will HAVE to pay"...
any comments? anyone been following this?
Looks like TIM is falling down on the job again and unable to control the MOLD that keeps returning to this blog. So hungry for attention of any kind. So sad, so pitiful, and yet I have no sympathy for mold.
Your analogy was just as lame. imo.
The flag is flown. That song was NOT written and approved by congress....... get my drift? And I'm totally against flag burning btw, but that's because I served my country 6 yrs under it.
I don't hate you either. But it's not required on here to have to like everyone's views for sure. WE've disagreed many times. I expect that will continue. No big deal.
that's cool BlueinRed, it's close to you then in pleasant ridge
Join the Hamilton County Democratic Party, Ohio Democratic Party and Commissioner Todd Portune!
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If you want to email me i'm at donkeyodatgmaildotcom
Hey fellow dems make sure you have your radios tune in because Dean is going to be on with Franken and i cannot wait to hear what he has in store for us today
momo here's how you link:
<A HREF="http://www.dnc.org">dnc blog</A>
Rerunning the military pay problem investigation on Cspan2, in case anyone's interested
How much is a trillion?
If you're like me, and big numbers bamboozle you then you might find it useful to convert to a recognisable scale.
One million seconds are the equivilant of 11 days
One billion seconds are 32 years
How much are one trillion seconds?
317 centuries.
Dawn, why do you assume that someone is afraid of something because they wish to keep the National Anthem in the language it was written? I don't mind a different version for a persons listening pleasure, but beleive it should be sung at public events in English. And I speak three languages other than English, Spanish being one of them. It would be nice to hear it in other languages, just for the joy of hearing it. But the National Anthem deserves to be sung in it's original form, you won't catch any other nation, Mexico and Spain included, singing their National Anthem in English, the only one in two Languages is God Save The Queen (and only in Canada as they have two national languages-English and French). At least in my opinion.
Just a correction, but I will agree to disagree:
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson ordered that it should become the National Anthem played by the military and naval services, but it wasn't until March 3rd, 1931 that it was officially designated as the National Anthem by act of Congress.
jen, can you give me that link you gave last nite? i need to do more studying...thanks for your help btw....
Posted by BlueinIdaho on April 28, 2006 at 12:22 PM
It was NOT written by congress. Whether some pretzeldent later included it is another story. It's a song that's sung as a tribute........ they are not changing the wording. Come on lets not get trivial about it.
Nations have FLAGS flown in every embassy....... totally apples and oranges to me.
SURE momo but you just type exactly what i typed above only put in your own http:... and your own name whatever you want to title it.
what i just did for this link was type the following:
<A HREF="http://www.boardhost.com/help/tutorials/html.html">html tutorial</A>
Posted by loner on April 28, 2006 at 12:21 PM
The Canadian Anthem is "O! Canada".
The "Star Spangled Banner" was originally an olde British drinking song called " To Anacreon in Heav'n".
ok guys this anthem thing is hardly of much import. this is a total wedge issue, let's not let the wedge drive us apart. let's focus on something of real import to people's lives maybe? just sayin'
I have an idea - those wetbacks should stay in Mexico where the national anthem is already in Spanish!
Posted by loner on April 28, 2006 at 12:21 PM
I thought the question was not WHERE it's sung but the simple fact some choose to translate it to their language to better sing it. Who cares. It's only a song!!
If you all get so upset about something so small I hate to see your true feelings on Gays, Women or Blacks getting equal pay and equal rights under this FLAG OF SUPPOSED FREEDOM FOR ALL!!!
HYPOCRITS (JMO)
L8TR
Posted by Dawnie on April 28, 2006 at 12:29 PM
And the flag was not sewn by Congress, but that doesn't mean it should not stay in its original state. The anthem means alot to me and I think tradition should stand for something.
As the Church Lady would say, "Isn't that special? Who's behind this? could it be . . . Satan!!!" No, Church Lady, that's not Satan' it's a repub.
WASHINGTON - Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, a former Republican Party chairman, arranged the startup financing for a GOP telemarketing company implicated in two criminal cases involving election dirty tricks.
Posted by Dawnie on April 28, 2006 at 12:32 PM
IMO, you're the one that is upset about this. Loner and I merely stated an opinion. To jump to an allegation that someone hates gays because they object to a change in our national anthem is ridiculous.
You are right Jen, this is a wedge issue that will surely stir the anger in a lot of Americans that resent immigrants. It was a big mistake.
ok guys this anthem thing is hardly of much import. this is a total wedge issue, let's not let the wedge drive us apart. let's focus on something of real import to people's lives maybe? just sayin'
Posted by jen on April 28, 2006 at 12:31 PM
But Jen, you post more drivvle than anyone else. Why is it ok when you do it?
it's not okay when i do it either mr troll, thank you very much
yo Veneita!!!
(and it's drivel, not drivvle.)
Democracy 2.0
Timothy Karr
As of this morning , more than 1,500 blogs have taken up a new cause, posting links toSavetheInternet.com and urging their readers to call on members of Congress to stand firm in defense of Internet freedom.
And, for the first time in blogger history, the Hill is hearing it.
On the last thread I proposed an idea for a new flag because I think the current flag is too busy with all those stars. I proposed a red flag with a few blue blotches on the edges and a couple of blue blotches in the middle. What do you think?
Posted by Dawnie on April 28, 2006 at 12:32 PM
Why don't you pull your knotted up panties out of the bunch they are obviously in. I clearly stated that i liked the idea that it was translated into different languages for the simple joy of hearing it in those languages. You obviously didn't read what I wrote. You were the one getting all pissy about folks being afraid of something simply because they liked the National Anthem as it was written. You were the one to assume people had something to fear because they didn't agree with your take on an issue. Seems to me like the fear is something you have yourself, and are trying to place on others. You were the one to get bent out of shape and accuse someone of being fearful of something and making it appear more sinister just because they didn't agree with you. And you know nothing of my personal life to start throwing out accusations of homophobia and racial tensions. And from your attitude, I can see there is good reason to NOT share any of my personal information with you. The only hypocracy you see is that in the mirror.
And I am sorry I typed the God Save the Queen as the Canadian National Anthem, my mind was thinking about the similaraties of God Save the Queen with out National Anthem and how, if you only hear the music, they sound almost identical. Sorry Canada.
"God Save The King/Queen" was re-written as "America" (My Country 'Tis of Thee...)
Confusing, ain't it?
Kristen
You'd better be concerned. I sent six of Bush's (not a Texan) Connecticut cowboy hitmen over to get you. I told them to be inconspicuous but when I saw they were riding their horses backwards I knew you were safe.
Now for the real reason. I found this link to a recorded speech by the University of Texas professor we discussed yesterday. It would seem the Texas minutemen are showing up today at UT Arlington to protest his statements. Here is the link.
Does anyone know what time Kristen usually shows up?
Posted by Tom_Terrific on April 28, 2006 at 11:55 AM
Tom, did you need me for something or are you just trying to cyber stalk me ;)
thanks jen...still watching the cspan2 on troubles with military pay. one ex-soldier just got up to testify, broke his leg in battle but medics mis-diagnosed and sent him back to battle, later he went to hospital, leg was broken. when he was discharged, he started getting billed for overpayments, they don't give options to make payments, military has to have all back at once. since the guy was sent back in battle with broken leg has destroyed leg, now his credit is destroyed and he is reduced to working at burger king. but the repugs in-charge of this "investigation" will end up thanking the military pay people for all the wonderful things they have done for the military....
Tom, you and I didn't discuss it. I said something to Matthew...are you two one in the same? I'll save the link and listen tonight at home.
Posted by DPD on April 28, 2006 at 12:58 PM
yes it tis.....
I read a story by Agatha Christie (when I was much younger) that used the similaraties of the songs as the key to solving a crime. It took place in the USA where the God save the Queen was played at an event and the criminal said he wasn't at the event, but said he'd heard them playing God Save the Queen from the street, the kicker was how did the killer know it was God Save the Queen and not "America", when the killer was not British and had no idea (supposedly) that it was a British Function at the stadium. Anyways, I digress. I shall go back to lurking. I feel safer that way.......
Dawnie: I believe they did change the meaning,
this morning on CNN Soledad did an interview with the Hispanic radio DJ about it and the words/meaning are different somewhat,
But for that matter, I am completely on the other side of the fence on Illegals, and it is not race, it is "Illegal" that has my pantyhose in a Knot.
I'm still for returning them to which ever country and they can all start over, and by sending them back, I mean charging their govts for the return airfare.
anyone listening to Neil Young?
momo, it's despicable what they're doing. makes me want to choke someone. what party supports the troops again? oh yeah. NOT the gop.
Posted by Tom_Terrific on April 28, 2006 at 12:59 PM
Well that will turn a lot of anger their way. White Americans have been searching for the boogey man since the USSR went belly up. The terrorists are not an enemy they can identify too easily, but give them this and they will have their enemy.
Posted by Kristen on April 28, 2006 at 01:03 PM
I'm confused. Who's Matthew? Is that "dashed line"...who also bears a striking similarity to Bruno?
Francis Scott Key wrote the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner," the national anthem of the United States of America. Key was born and raised in western Maryland. He became a lawyer, first in Frederick and then in what is now the Georgetown section of Washington, D.C. During the War of 1812, when it seemed likely that British forces would overtake Baltimore, Key travelled to Fort McHenry in September of 1814 to negotiate the release of Dr. William Beanes, who was being held captive by the British. Key succeeded in getting Beanes released, but was unable to leave, due to the British bombardment of the fort. During the bombardment Key was aboard a ship, some eight miles away, watching as the British shelled Fort McHenry. When the smoke cleared the next morning, Key was able to see the U.S. flag still flying at the fort (the specially-made flag was 30 feet high and 42 feet wide). Inspired by the sight, Key scribbled down a few poetic lines, which he later enhanced at a hotel in Baltimore. The poem, titled "Defence of Fort M'Henry," was widely circulated in newspapers throughout the U.S., then sung to the tune of an English song, "To Anacreon in Heaven." Popularly called "The Star-Spangled Banner," it was adopted on 3 March 1931 as the U.S. national anthem. Key went on to have a successful legal career, serving as a district attorney for Washington, D.C. for many years.
Kristen
Matthew and I are not one and the same. Around here many of us are discussing it. After reading so many posts after I came in late last night, combined with all of the other things going on around here I must have assumed, and you what they say about assumed, that we discussed it.
Sorry for mix up. Matthew will be gone for about 3 weeks. Driftwood gave him paid time off, bought tickets for him and wife to first go visit with his fasmily and the family of his high school buddy. Then Matthew and his wife are headind out on an expense paid R & R to the island of Maui.
I like to say he's a lucky guy but right now the slogan just doesn't fit.
Soory about that.
Condi is not a moslem Sandy.
If Junior can dress up like a test pilot, Condi can dress like Lawrence of Arabia. When in Rome..?
Actually, if she converted, they might treat her with a little more respect.
why Tom/--------
are you so insistent upon spreading this crap around? one person who is off their rocker DOES NOT represent 12 million.
----------
If we're going to argue immigration all day today, I think I'll find something more productive.
People that think it's feasible or right to round up 11 million people and deport them are unrealistic.
What happens in THIS situation? The kid was born here, so is an American Citizen, the mother is illegal, but the kid is NOT a Mexican citizen. Too complicated for a blog to figure out.
TUCSON, Ariz. -- An 18-year-old woman who gave birth in the desert used nail clippers to cut her baby girl's umbilical cord before being rescued by U.S. Border Patrol agents, authorities said.
Read the whole story from the link.
Posted by SandyH on April 28, 2006 at 01:15 PM
Ahhh, but satan never ever truly converts. Besides, the burka might tear due to her horns.
Looking at my typing errors I see it's time for me to go home and get some rest.
BTW - Bruno's due back either tomorrow or Sunday. He probably has some great tales to tell about his romp through Amsterdam with Billy Bob.
I can just picture it now. Two guys with Texas boots and cowboy hats probably stand out like a sore thumb. I can just image how they blended in sitting in an Amsterdam coffee house sipping freshly ground roasted beans.
i too am against "illegal immigrants"! I think that if you want to become an American citizen and reap all the benefits (?) of such, that you must follow the rules and regulations governing this. if we just enforce the current laws, give the immigration department enough people and money to do their jobs, we will not have "as much" of a problem as we do now. the center for immigration studies www.cis.org has some articles out addressing this...something like self deportation through attrition. however, the 11 to 20 million illegals that are here already, working in jobs, obeying the laws, being good citizens do need to have some sort of exception...i don't know all the answers but it is something that needs to be discussed at length!
where is "around here" Tom?
is driftwood jack your boss?
Matthew is the one who lost a loved one who was a soldier yesterday? Is that why he is going to have time off?
I hope you extend my condolences to him. I'm very sad to hear that.
DPD
Before I go I'll respond. The story you posted is indeed unfortunate. IMO both baby and parents should be allowed to stay. I sincerely hope that is what happens.
Just to clarfiy before everyone starts shouting about the employers,
I think they should all pay regardless, the per day/fines and do jail time, I don't think what they are doing is anyless important that what Martha Stewart spendt time in jail for.
The "Center For Immigration Studies" is a phony front group for anti-immigration. It was put together and funded by the same clowns who back the Minutemen.
If Junior can dress up like a test pilot, Condi can dress like Lawrence of Arabia. When in Rome..?
Actually, if she converted, they might treat her with a little more respect.
Posted by SandyH on April 28, 2006 at 01:15 PM
Well, George Bush was a jet pilot so he has every right to wear the outfit.
On the other hand, when John Kerry dressed up like a sperm that did not make him a sperm.
Posted by DPD on April 28, 2006 at 11:45 AM
Thank you for clearing that up, DPD. I wondered how the Iraqis took to having our servicewomen walking around in anything but battle fatigues. I suppose it doesn't matter how they dress, if they're carry a gun.
The constitution must be ammended. If you were born here, you are a citizen was meant to apply to slaves.
I guess since Chimpy McFlightsuit dressed up like a cheerleader that makes him a cheerleader. Trouble is, a "cheer" is the only thing he can lead.
One thing,
the PROBLEM is due to us not enforcing the laws against people that hire undocumented workers. If we used our influence to force Mexico's government to provide for their people instead of having all the money go to the 18 families that run the oligarchy there, they would have no reason to come here and risk their lives and leave their kin to come here.
Don't blame the victims. Clinton raked in lots of fines and Bush hasn't collected one thin dime from the companies hiring undocumented workers.
he and his cronies WANT undocumented workers coming so that they can have slave labor.
This is not an American vs. Mexican thing. It is a CLASS thing. We need to stand up for WORKERS of all ethnicities against the greedy pigs taking advantage of them here and in other countries.
READ this: thom hartmann today's immigration battle racists v. corporatists which one are you? or are you on the side of the workers?
later folks.
Sandy, even Big Shoes Hughes wore a scarf when she went there. She still got the bum's rush, though.
It must be the POLICY that's the problem, like "STOP KILLING US!"
sorry guys, but whether they are a "front group" or not, i still feel that their ideas are valid, and instead of dismissing them and me, perhaps a full blown discussion should ensue! we can not allow "undocumented" citizens to keep streaming across our borders, they drive down pay and cost our schools and hospitals, which btw, you and i pick-up this tab. we are a country of laws and we must address this problem. not only is it bad for America to allow this to continue, but it is bad for the illegal....just another way to enslave a people, and it is being sanctioned by the gop and big corps who benefit.
jen
Matthew, Bruno, Sammy, and myself we all work for Driftwood. There are 17 total with 13 Democrats and 4 borderline Republicans (all women). Regardless of what others may say he is a decent guy who cares about his employees.
I was told Matthew found out yesterday. Apparently the event occured serveral days ago and I will pass on you message.
Bye for now.
Another clarification:
being against Illegal immigration, is not equal to being against immigration
And rounding them all up - 11,000,000 is possible, take the money in fines and use it to help sending them back,
for those who delibratly became pregnant, I dont see where that makes their breaking the law ok, but some provision can be made to help them become legal, but I only think that encourages pregnancy as a quick fix, having someone to use getting pregnant for gain isnt the best theory on the planet either, it kind of reminds me of the lets get married plan to become a US citizen and then dump our stupid american wive theory.
Jen
I left out ole Billy Bob. Hope he doesn't kick my butt because he hates to be left out.
I heard that a LOT of Companies are shutting down Monday so Immigration can't come in and do a random head count. If the Companies all say "we don't hire illegals" and there are 50 more people there on May 2 than were there on May 1, WATCH OUT!
people that say the are against undocumented workers are against desperate people who are simply trying to provide for their families. why would someone risk their life to come here and work if they had opportunities at home? blame the appropriate people.
what would you do if there was no way to provide for your family here? and the only way to get somehwere to feed your family was to do it illegaly or face waiting while your family starved.
If you can say you wouldn't do the same, you're lying.
thx tom for the explanation.
it saddens me some of the stuff i'm reading that people have been misguided enough to believe by the mistruths being put out by the hate mexicans groups. I will take my leave now.
educate yourself, think critically, consider the agenda of your sources.
Jen:
Why arent they trying to fix their own country,
If they start picketing in Mexico, Alot of Americans would be sympathic and help, why do you think they should come to America rather then staying an fixing it for their other country men,
Running away from the problem is ok for Mexicans because the fight is long and tedious?
I wouldnt be proud to run and leave,
Yes they want a better life, I want that for them too, but what about all the ones left behind that didnt make across the border in time.
Whats going to help them, or next year we do it all again, or in 5 years we do it again, or in 10 years we do it again.
I say they should be fighting and picketting to help their brother, sister, dads and moms in Mexico.
Jen, calm down, i think that we are on the same side, i read the article you linked and i agree, but i still feel that laws should be enforced!
dk, they send their money back to mexico. maybe you should learn more about what is going on in mexico with their government. okay?
i don't care to discuss this right now. I'm disappointed.
Well, the Immigration distraction worked.
Bush sold the production of the M1 Abrams Tank to DUBAI!!
What do those Emirs have on this guy?
After reading everybody's posts, I still believe that this immigration issue is a red herring meant to detract from the real fleecing of America by republicans. This issue will not be solved in a short time span, causes further division between people, and is not nearly as important as other, more pressing issues such as out debt load, republican corruption, oil and gas issues, and the environment. Once again, Rove and the old bait and switch.
Really, our immigration problem is no less serious as it was ten years ago and no less serious as it will be ten years from now.
Let's talk about ways of getting these republican menaces out of office so we can work on making our country more competitive in the global market, make our educational systems stronger for all, and most of all bring back a feeling of togetherness, even if we do not all believe in the same exact thing. We are fractured now like never before thanks to the republicans.
i didn't say laws shouldn't be enforced. i'm fine. i'm not angry at anyone. if you're starving, and all you're worried about is surviving, it's kind of tough to organize.
be well all. see you later.
Come on Jen,
You are my hero, have you read this article you linked for us, it is saying the same thing we are saying....illegals are NOT good for America....but instead of rounding up all 11 to 20 million of them and deporting, we DO need to give them some sort of track to citizenship, at the same time, we need to regulate our borders better.
DPD
i've noticed that this administration just keeps doing so many illegal things at one time it's hard to keep and eye on them....that is part of their plan too, we can't stop everything, not till after november anyway.
thx momo, it's okay. yes i've read the article a million times and agree with thom.
i think Chris is right.
i'm glad we agree and even if we don't i still love yáll!
gotta run. see ya later
Am reading an interesting book right now, "So Far From God" by S. D. Esinenhouser (sp?), about the American/Mexican war.....very interesting, also shows that we continue to repeat history....
I sincerely hope we can do something in November. I am so worried about the voting irregularities. Every time I see Katherine Harris in the news, I look at that wrinkled 'wicked-witch' smile and I wonder what she knows that makes her so damn (am I allowed to write that) smug.
Afternoon all you fine peeps!
I predicted in 2004 that this issue (illegal immigration) would come up in this election cycle just like they used gay marriage in the last one.
The question I really want answered is how in the hell do they know the number is roughly 11 million. They are undocumented. How do you count them? Inquiring minds want to know. I think alot is just propaganda.
Thanks Jen, hate it when we disagree, now, more than ever, Dems need to agree!
Hope everyone has a great weekend, and if you are going to be canvassing, hope you are able to inspire and get out the vote for Dems!
tonito:
a few day ago on the blog immagration came up I asked the same question, someone replied that the figures are from the census bureau.
What do those Emirs have on this guy?
Posted by DPD on April 28, 2006 at 01:46 PM
Uhhhh, oil?
And, bushie likes holding their hands, wonder if he got a gf ring.....
I think we need to press for more information on the Republican Watergate Hotel Hooker scandal that may rope in Porter Goss!
Prosecutors May Widen
Congressional-Bribe Case
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that there is enough evidence of a lobbyist-sponsored prostitution ring that investigators are scurrying across D.C., trying to figure out exactly which lawmakers were involved:
In recent weeks, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents have fanned out across Washington, interviewing women from escort services, potential witnesses and others who may have been involved in the arrangement.
Prosecutors were tipped off about the sex-for-favors scheme by Mitchell Wade, who has already plead guilty to bribing Cunningham and is cooperating with investigators. Wilkes, through his attorney, has denied any involvement.
Ken Silverstein at Harper's blog dropped a bombshell last night about just how far-reaching the scandal may be, revealing that the FBI is investigating former lawmakers, including "one person who now holds a powerful intelligence post." TPM Muckraker points out that CIA Director Porter Goss fits that description perfectly. Silverstein also disclosed that there are pictures.
It seemed, as Markos said when Hotline first reported on the hospitality suites, "insanely improbable" that the culture of corruption included a lobbyist-sponsored prostitution ring. Yet five months later, here we are, firmly outside of tinfoil hat territory, reading about a Republican sex scandal in the pages of the Wall Street Journal.
And let us not forget that, at this point, it is a Republican sex scandal. Porter Goss, if you'll recall, was a highly partisan Republican lawmaker for fifteen years before he was tapped as CIA Director. And Justin Rood over at TPM Muckraker thinks that the prostitution ring could lasted about fifteen years.
Is the CIA Director involved in a D.C. prostitution ring? (It's so surreal just to type that question out). In refusing to investigate the CIA leak case, Goss famously proclaimed "Somebody sends me a blue dress and some DNA, I'll have an investigation."
Goss, it appears, is a stickler for physical evidence. Will pictures do? Hotel logs? Eyewitness identification by the prostitutes themselves?
All we have now are questions. It remains unknown who is implicated and to what extent they participated in this sex-for-favors scheme. But one thing is certain, as evidence comes to light, this scandal is going to be blown wide open, and there's no telling who or how many Republicans will go down.
and there's no telling who or how many Republicans will go down.
Posted by tonitobandito on April 28, 2006 at 02:09 PM
no pun intended????
LOL momo!
And how many of those prostitutes were of the male persuasion????
But, momo, Dubai is almost out of oil. They are a tourism based economy now. They already have enough money to last them, so WHY ARE THEY MAKING A PROFIT OFF THE US? Same thing with the tarriffs with that failed Ports deal.
They have something on Bush, and he was stupid enough to allow himself to be blackmailed.
DPD:
Bush's family goes way back to his Dad's relationship with the Saudi Family and business ventures with Bush Sr. I believe.
DPD,
perhaps they were the part of the companies that bailed him out when he worked for Harken.....Does the Carlyle company have any connections to Dubai?
DPD
you might find this interesting on their relationship
http://www.hermes-press.com/BushSaud.htm
Momo:
you also will find this interesting use the link I sent DPD.
Posted by dk2 on April 28, 2006 at 02:21 PM
Thx, dk2
I knew that the first oil well in the NEW Country of Kuwait was drilled by the Bush family, and that one of Chimpy's Frat brothers was a bin Laden, but WOWEE WOWEE WOW.
Amanda (a former regular blogger here) is doing a geneology study of the Bush clan, and he has discovered that EVERY armed conflict since at least the sinking of the Maine has profited the Bush, Walker, Ellis and Pierce families, and they have ALL interbred to form this shallow gene pool that spawned the ass clown we have in the White House now.
For Jen and blueinredcincy:
Commission Reprimands Republican Ohio Congresswoman
The Ohio Elections Commission on Thursday reprimanded U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt for claiming on her Web site last year that she had two college degrees when she had only one.
The commission in a unanimous ruling said Schmidt had violated campaign law.
DPD : it is frighten to me, most americans are not informed, I don't consider myself informed either, some posters on here really have helped, they know where to find the info and just know alot about the system, but I think the American people as a whole dont have time to read of much less find this stuff.
spawned the ass clown we have in the White House now.
Now that was funny, DPD!
dk2, maybe instead of debates and elections we should have the Candidates on American I-DULL?
That would get the stoopid folks talking.
hey tonito, just heard that!
GEt this!!
Congress Members Arrested at Sudan Protest
I am so proud of them. Had to come back and show you's guys!
mwah! later!
DPD
I know of plenty in my age group that still dont use the internet, they dont like computers,
I have been thinking of trying to get a class together just to try and show them how to look stuff up. It is amazing what we as americans dont know.